The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, Issue 554
The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, Issue 554
The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, Issue 554
soldiers assigned to combat and combat support units and all soldiers with unit maintenance and supply duties. All information published has been reviewed and approved by the agency responsible for the equipment, publication or policy discussed. Application of the information is optional with the user. Masculine pronouns may refer to both genders.
ISSUE 554
WHEELED VEHICLES
Winter Driving FMTV Heater Controls, Coolant Overflow Tank HMMWV Engine HMMWV, CUCV Oil Filler Cap, CDRV HMMWV Antenna Rub Damage M149A2 Trailer Water Tank Cleaning M939/M939A1 Truck Hot Water Heater Freightliner M915-Series Brush Guard
JANUARY 1999
NBC
M157/M157A2 Smoke Generator Blank M8A1 Chemical Alarm M43A1 Detector M41 PATS Calibration and Repair
2
2-5 6 7 8-9 9 10 11 11
38
38-39 40-41 41
COMMUNICATIONS
AN/PDR-75 Humidity Indicator Element AN/VRC-12 RT Antenna Hookup Adapter Vehicular Antenna Tension Relief Commo Shelter Roof Protection Duster Kits and Refills AN/UXC-7 Facsimile Document Holder RL-207A/G Reel V-belt
42
42 43 43 44-45 45 46-47 47
COMBAT VEHICLES
12
M1 Tank Impact Wrench 12-13 M1 Tank Spent Ammo Frame 14 M1 Tank Roadwheel Hubs, IGV Pin 15 MLRS Windshield Cleaning, Coolant Leaks 16-17 MLRS Fan Shroud Fins, Track and Cab Nuts 18 STE-M1/FVS Test Set 19 M113 FOV Drivers Hatch Bumper 20 M109 SP Howitzer, M992 Ammo Carrier Access Grille, Starter, Radiator Shroud Seals 21,22 SUSV Fire Extinguisher and Bracket 22 M119A1 Towed Howitzer Stuffing Box Plug 23
TOOLS
Nuts, Bolts and Washers Tool Box Flag 5-Ton Wrecker Torch Outfit Drill Chuck Keys
48
48-50 50 51 52-53
MISSILES
Dragon Missile Sight Protection Avenger Missile Turret Seats TOW 2 Missile Tripod
24
24-25 25 26
SOLDIER SUPPORT
M2 Burner Safety Immersion Heater Rust Prevention Water Can Moisture Removal
54
54-55 56-57 57
SMALL ARMS
Machine Gun Corrosion Prevention M2 MG Back Plate Locking Latch M60 MG Stuck Round Removal M60 MG Recoil Spring
35
35 35 36 37
LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT
LOGSA Phone Number Updates QDR On-line Filing
58
58-59 60
1 27 61
You are invited to send PS your ideas for improving maintenance procedures, questions on maintenance and supply problems, and questions or comments on material published in PS. Just write to:
MSG Half-Mast The Preventive Maintenance Monthly LOGSA, Bldg. 5307 Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-7466
Or E-mail to:
DENNIS J. REIMER
psmag@logsa.army.mil
Internet Address:
http://www.logsa.army.mil/psmag/pshome.html
JOEL B. HUDSON
PS, The Preventive Maintenance Monthly (ISSN 0475-2953) is published monthly by the Department of the Army, Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-7466. Periodical Postage is paid at the Huntsville, AL post office and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to PS, The Preventive Maintenance Monthly, LOGSA, Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-7466.
PS 554
JAN 99
Issue 554
THE
TB 43-PS-554
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
January 1999
MONTHLY
i checked every item in the pmcs checklist and this bradley is ready to roll.
he y, pal! there's lots of stuff not mentioned in the checklist that you need to check!
t may seem like your equipment is good to go after you pull PMCS and dont find any faults listed on your TMs PMCS checklist. But a PMCS checklist usually covers only the most critical checks and s r i e .I d e n tc v re e y h n . evcs t os oe vrtig But some equipment operators think if its not listed in their TMs PMCS c a t t e d n th v t c e ki o t hr, hy o ae o hc t u during every PMCS. Theyre wrong. In fact, sometimes theyre dead wrong. A lot of stuff not mentioned in the checklist is important, too. A leaking hydraulic line, loose cable connector, broken weld or heavy corr s o a es r l j s a i p r a ta oin r uey ut s motn s aw r f nb l . on a et The intro to most itemized PMCS c e k i t t l sy ut l o f rt e e hclss el o o ok o hs
Loose or missing bolts, nuts or screws Cracked or rusted welds Frayed wiring, loose or broken
connectors Leaking or worn hoses and fluid lines Signs of corrosion
If you spot any of these problems that you cant fix yourself, report them just like you do when you find problems with specific items on your PMCS cekit hcls. Performing only those checks and services spelled out on the PMCS checklist just wont cut it. PMCS is more than that. Much more. Its making sure that everything is good to go, whether its spelled out on your equipments PMCS chart or not. I ta sml. ts ht ipe
winter means hazardous driving conditions when even good drivers get tripped up.
covered roads mean trouble. On a slick road, you cant count on your brakes to stop you. Stomp on the brakes and youre gonna slide.
Adjust your speed to road conditions. Steep hills, sharp curves, ice, or snow-
that's it! stay cool and steer into the direction you're skidding!
If you do skid, steer in the direction the rear of the vehicle is headed. If youre driving a tractor-trailer, steer away from the direction of the sliding trailer. Remember, dont oversteer! Steer it just enough to correct your skid. Stay cool. PS 554 2 JAN 99
look ahead, keep your eyes moving-be ready to stop at all times. plan to stop 20 or 30 feet short of your goal. that extra room is for unexpected trouble. use enough power to help you around curves, and to hold traction. take it easy, no jerking. use extra caution on sharp curves. slow down before going into a curve or downgrade. engine drag helps too-just ease off on the throttle.
the road ahead might look clean, but shaded areas st ay icy.
bridges and overpasses freeze first. cold air passes under them and water will freeze fast.
two forces to helpmomentum and traction. The more momentum you have, the less traction you need. Its a good idea to lay back and let the vehicles ahead of you make it to the top first. That way, you wont have to stop half way up. Keep your distance.
lay back... keep moving slowly 'til he gets to the top of the hill.
running start, so when you reach the peak, youve got enough momentum left to get you over. Try to get to the top of the hill in one smooth, uninterrupted run.
Get a
sure your load is evenly distributed. Avoid poor drivinglike jackrabbit starts, sudden stops, and sharp turnsthat breaks traction.
Keeping your tires in good condition and properly inflated helps traction. Be
Make each shift as smooth as possible. With a manual transmission, you PS 554 4 JAN 99
Watch that shift, particularly the downshift. It can break your grip on the road.
might even get over the top of the grade using one or two gears higher than youd NEVER use under ideal conditions. GO TOO FAST OR THE CENTRIFUGAL FORCE When youre on a dry road you can shift WILL SLING YOU OFF down to a lower gear using your engine as a THE ROAD. brake. But on ice, remember that the engine holding back your wheels is applying force to them just as brakes do. It can throw you into a skid. If you feel your truck start to slide, speed up your engine until your wheels are no longer sliding. If you have to use your hydraulic brakes...tap, tap, tapem. If your vehicle has air brakes, apply light, steady pressure. Going into curves, slow down before you enter the curve, steer smoothly and evenlyno jerking. Get the feel of the curve. Under icy conditions, it can take three to 12 times as far to stop. Give yourself plenty of room to get stopped. Let the power train slow you down.
NE VER SLAM ON THE BRAKES! FRONT WHEELS LOCK WITH HEAVY BRAKING, AND YOU LOSE STEERING.
USING THESE TIPS, EVEN THE worst WEATHER CONDITIONS WILL BE EASIER TO HANDLE.
that the coolant overflow tank is no handhold for climbing into the engine area of an FMTV. The overflow hose connector is attached right at the cap, and when you reach for the cap as a handhold, its bye-bye connector. That puts your truck out of action until the connector is reattached or another overflow tank is installed. PS 554 6 JAN 99
HMMWV . . .
ou know how every once in a while you have to take your HMMWV out into the boonies? How the weeds, leaves, sticks, dirt and mud you drive through get crammed into every opening on the underside of the truck? Well, some of that stuff can find its way into the engine compartment, like between the intake manifold and the engine block.
Trash gets in at front of engine...
Very few folks ever look to see whats lurking thereand that can lead to leaks at the fuel injector lines.
look at all this damp trash i found between your intake manifold and the engine block.
So, TACOM is adding this semiannual check to the PMCS. Itll show up under Body on Page 2-6 in TM 9-2320-280-20-1: Make sure the engine compartment is clean and free of debris. Give particular attention to the rear of the engine. It may be necessary to remove the engine access cover inside the vehicle to ensure this area is clean.
PS 554
JAN 99
HMMWV, CUCV . . .
HMMWV . . .
Dear Editor, The units we support have a problem with antennas rubbing holes in the HMMWVs cargo cover. For units that dont have the offset mount, theres a simple fix to take the rub out. Cut out an 8x2-in patch from an old piece of canvas. Patch over the worn spot. Use a rubberbased adhesive to hold the patch in place. NSN 8040-00-2981946 gets an 8-oz can.
If the CDRV flunks, replace it with NSN 2990-01-147-9284 for the HMMWV. There is no test for the CUCVs CDRV. If you suspect its bad, replace it, NSN 2990-01147-9284. Check the CDRV connectors and hoses, too. If they are loose or the hoses have holes, dirt will plug the CDRV. Tighten or replace them if necessary.
Check hoses and connectors for looseness and holes Rear-mount antenna rubs canvas
Item 7 in Table 2-1 of the HMMWVs TM 9-2320-280-20-1 says to check the CDRV every six months. Item 2 in Table 2-1 of the CUCVs TM 9-2320-289-20 says to check its CDRV annually. Oil Filler Cap But dont wait if you see oil on the The CUCV oil filler cap is easy to engine or on the ground after the trucks test. Take it off and shake it. If it rattles, been running or if you see blue exRattles? Its OK haust smoke. Those signs tell you the CDRVs probably clogged. Repairmen, use a manometer to test the HMMWVs CDRV for two to five inches of vacuum at 2,000 rpm. The procedures on Page 3-14 in TM 92320-280-20-2. PS 554 8 JAN 99
hen the pressure gets too much for your HMMWV or CUCV, somethings got to give. A clogged crankcase depression regulator valve (CDRV) on a HMMWV or CUCV, or a plugged-up oil filler cap on your CUCV, lets pressure build in the crankcase. What gives are oil pan and valve cover gaskets and crankcase seals, which can lead to a blown engine.
CDRV
PS 554
JAN 99
M149A2-Series Trailers . . .
oo many units wait until the eleventh hour before a field exercise to clean their water trailers tank. Or they leave water in the tank for months at a time after the last exercise. Cleaning the tank improves the taste of the water and keeps the tank safe to use. TM 9-2330-267-14&P says to clean the tank annually, or when the medics tell you the tank is contaminated. But why wait? Youll be drinking the water, too. Here are some PM tips to keep you from ending up with a cup of slimy, rusty, metallic-tasting water to drink. * After a field exercise, empty the tank completely. Water left in the tank causes rust, mineral deposits and algae buildup.
three months pour in eight gallons of vinegar, NSN 8950-01-0793978, and leave it for 5-6 hours. Then empty the tank and flush it with clean water. * Clean the tank more often during the summer. Make sure you drain the tank completely between uses.
PS 554
10
JAN 99
M939/M939A1-Series Trucks . . .
ome of the parts for the hot water Here are the heater on your 5-ton trucks were ones you need... left out of TM 9-2320-272-20P.
Ventilator, NSN 2540-01-083-1109 Seal, NSN 5330-01-108-9119 Canister, NSN 2540-01-138-0925 Heater, blower motor, NSN 6105-00-512-9225
M915A2/M916A1/M916A2/M917A1 Trucks . . .
T hat hollow brush guard on M915A2, M916A1, M916A2 and M917A1 trucks is ripe for corrosion and damage because it fills with water. The water causes rust in warm weather and becomes ice in the cold. Freezing water can split the tubing. Take care of both problems by drilling a 1/4-in hole in the bottom of the guards cross rail. Use green CARC paint, NSN 801001-229-7546, for touch-up.
11
JAN 99
M1-Series Tanks . . .
rewmen, tank track maintenance is a lot easier with an electric impact wrench, NSN 5130-01-363-0964, thats in tip-top shape. Proper use and good PM will ensure the wrench is ready the next time you need it. Here are a few things to remember:
Operation
The impact wrench is a powerful tool that generates a lot of heat, even during normal operations. The manufacturer recommends a duty cycle of three to five seconds on and five to 10 seconds off.
PS 554 PS 554 12 12 JAN 99 JAN 99
Check the vents on the wrenchs Free run the wrench dust cover before operation. Clean for about 30 seconds af- away dust or other obstructions. ter hard use. That will Clogged vents will overheat the motor help get rid of excess and burn it out, so keep the wrench out of dirt, sand and mud as much as heat. Always use the side possible. handle to avoid coverCheck vents for clogging ing the air vents with a hand or glove. Keep the wrench square with the fastener being removed or installed. Never let the wrench hang free from a fastener or use a pry bar to get it loose. Always wear safety glasses and use If the wrench wont the blue retainer rings when operating break the hardware the impact wrench. loose within five secRepair onds, stop! The wrench Call in your mechanic to repair will burn up if you force it to loosen nuts and an impact wrench thats damaged or bolts that are too tight. Use an exten- not functioning properly. Hell follow sion handle, socket, and socket wrench the procedures in Appendix F of the from the tanks basic issue items (BII) -20-1-5 TMs. The most common problems are to break the hardware loose, then use worn brushes and a bad switch. The the impact wrench to finish the job. When installing hardware, always brushes can be fixed with the brush thread it with your fingers first, repair kit, NSN 5977-01-384-4862. After installing a new brush kit, free then tighten with the impact wrench. Using the wrench to start nuts and bolts run the wrench for 15 minutes in both could cross-thread them and jam the directions. That seats the brushes and improves the electrical contact. hardware. Replace a bad switch with NSN If the TM requires a specific torque for the hardware, use a torque wrench 5930-01-386-0531. Other repair parts to finish tightening, not the impact are listed in Group 3100 of the -24P-1 wrench. TMs. PS 554 13 JAN 99
M1-Series Tanks . . .
oaders, empty shell casings can pack a wallop when they hit the spent ammunition frame in your M1series tank. It takes good PM on your part to keep the frame rolling with those punches. Make your first stop the pins that connect the frame to the spent ammunition screen guard.
Check cotter pins for wear
Both pins are held in place with cotter pins, NSN 5315-01-390-7088. Over time, the constant impact of the shell casings will break or loosen the cotter pins. When the cotter pins fall out, so do the frame pins. The frame cant contain the shell casings. Keep an eye on the cotter pins. If theyre loose, tighten em. If they look worn or damaged, replace em. Your second stop is the pivoting bars on t h e frames flipper and shield. Moisture from condensation and washing lead to rust, which freezes the flipper and shield in place. You end up with shell casings Lube bars semiannually with PL-M everywhere but where they should be. Have your mechanic replace any bars that are badly rusted. NSN 5340-01185-9634 gets the flipper bar. The guard bar is NSN 5340-01-185-9635. The bars should get a light coat of PL-M before installation and again during semiannual maintenance. That keeps everything moving smoothly. 14 PS 554 JAN 99
rivers, if your M1-series tank hasnt moved for awhile, you could have a problem the next time you drive it. When a tank sits for a long time three to four weeksthe oil in the roadwheel hubs sits, too. The top part of the hub seal doesnt get lubed, so it dries out and cracks. You end up with leaking hubs during your next mission. So, move your vehicle at least every two weeks. Just a few feet is enough
MLRS . . .
oww! how do you expect either of us to see with treatment like that!
ay you dont do windows? When it comes to the cab windshields on your MLRS, its better not to do anything than to clean em the wrong way. Cleaning the windshields with high-pressure water or steam is definitely the wrong way. The heat and high pressure loosen the adhesive that binds the glass layers together. The glass turns hazy or opaque, making it very hard for crewmen to see. If it gets bad enough, your vehicle is NMC. Heres the right way to clean cab windshields: 1. Flush the outside window surface with low-pressure water. Wipe the inside surface with a wet sponge or soft, wet cloth.
Use sponge and soapy water only
Keep clothing buckles, buttons, and zippers away from the window surfaces. 3. Flush the outside surface again with clean water. Wipe the inner surface with a sponge or cloth and clean water until the detergent is removed. 4. Dry each surface by lightly wiping with a clean, dry cloth using straight strokes from the top to the bottom. That prevents streaking.
2. Wipe both surfaces lightly with a sponge or soft cloth saturated with a solution of general purpose detergent, NSN 7930-00-880-4454, and water. Use 1/4 ounce of detergent per gallon of water.
Drivers, nothings more irritating than a coolant leak on your MLRS that you
cant find. Unfortunately, thats what happens when the leak is coming from coolant hose, NSN 4720-01-109-2052. Leaks from that hose drip straight down on the engine manifold. The intense heat from the manifold immediately evaporates the coolant. With the coolant gone, you cant find any trace of a leak. Check hose quarterly for cracks or softness To make matters worse, the hose may only leak when engine heat makes it expand. Once the engine cools down, the hose contracts and the leak often disappears. Stop those leaks from happening. Eyeball the hose quarterly for cracks and feel for softness. If you find either, get your mechanic to replace the hose. PS 554 17 JAN 99
PS 554
16
JAN 99
MLRS . . .
ouch! my fan shroud fins will need some pm after this beating!
rivers, your MLRS takes a beating from tree limbs and branches when youre in the field. Thats why you should always give the fan shroud fins a good once-over
when you get back to the motor pool. Fins that are knocked loose in the field will turn up missing if you dont spot and report problems. Eyeball the fins closely. Try to move em. If theres any give at all, report it. DS can weld loose fins and save your unit the money it takes for fabrication or replacement.
Loose fins can be rewelded
insets on the cab hinge and track pads. They hold better than the ones in TM 9-1450-646-24P. Use NSN 5310-00-068-8067 for Item 8 of Fig 1 and Item 78 of Fig 171. Use NSN 5310-00-175-2710 for Item 5 in Fig 9, Item 4 in Fig 13 and Items 13, 15, and 21 in KITS. PS 554 18 JAN 99
Dear Editor, The STE-M1/FVS test set can save you lots of timeif its working right. If its not, it can waste your time with needless troubleshooting. Ive come up with a few ways to keep the tester testing accurately. The most important is to clean its cable connectors monthly with isopropyl alcohol and an acid swab brush. If the connectors are dirty, you get faults where no faults exist. If you do get a fault during a test, dont start troubleshooting right away. First, run the test again. If you get the same fault, check that the connectors on the vehicles diagnostic panel and turret distribution box are clean. Clean them with isopropyl alcohol and an acid swab brush if necessary. Make sure the connectors are dry before you hook them back up. Finally, ensure that all the ...and acid brush Clean connectors with alcohol... STE-M1/FVS cables are screwed snugly into the vehicle connectors. A loose cable causes faults. Then, rerun the test. Nine times out of 10 your vehicle will pass the test. Gary Williams 29th Inf Ft Benning, GA
find fault with We certainly cant ster. Thanks. your tests for the te JAN 99
you look like you 're the one that needs testing!
PS 554
19
M113-Series FOV . . .
rivers, if youre having problems with cracked hatch hinges, the culprit might be a low hatch bumper. If the bumper doesnt sit high enough, theres free play between the bumper and the drivers hatcheven when the hatch is locked open. The hatch generates a lot of stress when it bounces up and down during operation. Pretty soonCRA-A-ACK! the hinge gives way.
Hatch hinge cracks here
hook engaged, the hatch should compress the bumper about 1/4 inch. If it doesnt, get your mechanic to raise the bumper using flat washers, NSN 5310-00-951-7209.
Hatch should compress bumper about 1/4 inch
Check the hatch bumper right now. With the hatch open and the hold-down
While youre at it, check the condition of the bumper. If the rubber is cracked, chipped or has lost its flexibility, get your mechanic to replace it. Hell use NSN 5340-00-209-9281 for the M577- and M1068-series vehicles. NSN 5340-00-679-9211 gets a bumper for all other M113-series vehicles.
ts easy to close the engine access grille on your M109-series SP howitzer and M992-series Slamming grille ammo carrier by letting it fall back in place, but breaks quickits also costly. Dropping the grille breaks the grille supports release pin quick-release pin, especially if the pin hasnt been stowed properly. Then the support cant hold up the grille. Leaning the grille back against the turret is a bad idea, too. You dont want to be working there if the grille comes crashing down! Instead, order a new quick-release pin, NSN 5315-00-419-0758, to fix the support. Then, remember to slowly lower the grille in place.
echanics, if youve been getting complaints of a hot-running engine in an M109-series howitzer or M992-series ammo carrier, check the radiator shroud seals. The seals form an air barrier between the radiator and fan tower. That barrier increases air flow through the radiator to keep the engine cool. If seals are missing, torn, squashed or mangled, Replace worn or missing shroud seals air escapes around the sides of the radiator. Engine temperature goes up. Eyeball the shroud seals next time the packs out. If the seals are missing or torn, order new ones. Check the -24P manual for the correct seals on your vehicle.
echanics, youve probably heard more than once, Always use the hardware called for in the TM. Dont substitute! The machine thread plug, NSN 5365-01-344-6040, on the stuffing box of your M119A1 howitzer is a great example of why this is so important.
hey, sergeant! did you see a bolt fly over this way?
The plug has holes to vent excess pressure from the grease used in the recuperator. If Substitute bolt lets pressure build Plug you substitute a has drilled standard bolt, vent theres no ventholes ing. Pressure builds until that bolt becomes a miniature rocket just waiting to blast off. The next time you remove the bolt during servicesWHOOM! You better hope youre not in the way. Again, use only the hardware your TM calls for. No substitutes! PS 554 23 JAN 99
same ol' story. poor packing and handling did him in.
handle and use only the carrying handle Hands off shocks to hold it. Never use the shocks as hand holds. They rip right off. Grip the bodies of both sights to pull them out of their bags. Put both hands in front of the sights to slide them back on the rounds rails. Same thing goes for the Grip sight in front to slide it into position eyeguards. Theyre only glued on. If you pull on them or use them as focus knobs, they come off. Without eyeguards, the sights give you a black eye.
Editor, Dear Editor, Av In PS 544, you told Avenger folks to step on Check which seat you have the left side of the seat when they climb in aluminum or fiberglass turret avoid the turret to avoid putting a foot through the seats aluminum bottom. Av advice... e...if Thats good advice... if your Avengers still have seats. Av have aluminum seats. But many Avengers now have fiberglass bottoms. have seats with fiberglass bottoms. With seats, directly those seats, you should step directly in the center. Fiberglass cave seats center. Fiberglass seats wont cave in from your weight. Stepping on the side of the seat quickly wears out the $300 seat cushion. before where step, So before deciding where to step, find out Av has. which seat your Avenger has. SPC Benjamin Radcliffe 3/4 ADA es. Bragg, Ft Bragg, NC Thanks for pointing out seat differenc
Its a step in the right direction.
PS 554
25
JAN 99
he tripod is what supports your TOW. If the tripods shaky, your accuracy will be too. Here are a few ways you can support the tripod. The tripods most critical part is the locking clamp. If it works loose, as it often does during firing, the traversing unit (TU) wont be locked on tight and youll have trouble tracking a target. After you install the TU and lock down the clamp, try to twist the TU back and forth. If there is any movement, your repairman should tighten the clamp with
Test tripod by twisting TU
a 3/16-in hex wrench. If you would rather do it yourself, get a cheap hex wrench with NSN 5120-00-240-5300. Turn the TU again. If theres still play, the clamps shot. Get a different tripod. Also make sure the locking clip for the clamp works. If it cant do the job, the clamp can unlock and the TU takes a fall.
Locking clip OK?
Help the tripod last by not riding around with the TU mounted. That loosens the clamp and eventually ruins it. Eyeball the tripod crossbars on all four sides for cracks. If you spot any, its time for a new tripod.
Cracks in crossbars? Tighten clamp if loose
PS 554
26
JAN 99
Machine Guns . . .
Naked Tripods
Dear Half-Mast, are bare Many of our machine gun tripods are stripped down to bare metal and are prev event Does are rusting. Some units paint their tripods to prevent corrosion. Does this help? 1 LT L.B.
Dear Lieutenant L.B., Paint is not the answer. It will not stick to the smooth metal of the tripod. Whenever bare spots appear on a tripod, you should immediately treat them with solid film lubricant (SFL), NSN 9150-00-754-0064. Thats the best way to beat corrosion on the tripod and the machine gun itself. If youre part of a rapid deployment or Treat bare spots with SFL divisional combat unit, you can touch up no more than one-third of the tripod with SFL. If more than one-third of the finish is gone, you should turn in the tripod. All other units can touch up the entire tripod. Clean off any corrosion before applying SFL.
M2 Machine Gun . . .
Bad Latches
Bad M2 machine gun back plate locking latches
are still out there. The bad latches bend and warp and let the back plate slip off. If that happens, your M2 could come apart during firing. Thats why you armorers need to check your M2s right now for bad latches. Bad latches are rounded on the corners. Good latches are square-cornered, have more metal on the bottom, and have the part number stamped on them. If you find a bad latch, get support to replace it. M2s with the old latches are deadlined until they get a new latch. PS 554 35
Good latch Part number Bad latch
JAN 99
ometimes SAFE isnt safe enough...like when youre removing a stuck or ruptured round from your M60. Even with the gun set on SAFE, the bolt could slip off the sear and the round could go off. To remove a stuck round, TM 9-1005-224-10 says to pull the charging handle all the way to the rear and put your M60 on SAFE before you take off the barrel. But if SAFE doesnt hold the sear and bolt in place, that stuck round could go off and jam the bolt against the sear. The solution is to have a buddy hold the charging handle to the rear while you take off the barrel. Then Hold cocking handle to rear even with safety set theres no chance the bolt can move. Once a barrel is removed, insert a cleaning rod in the muzzle and tap out the case or cartridge.
i've got the gun set on safe and i'm holding the bolt back so it's double safe!
good! i'll remove the barrel and clear that stuck round.
f you armorers dont measure up, you cant expect your M60 machine guns to fire successfully. Firing compresses the recoil spring. If the spring shortens to less than 231/4 inches, bad things happenpoor recoil, double feeds, jamming. After every trip to the range, get out your ruler and measure the recoil springs. Replace any that are too short.
Replace springs that measure less than 231/4 inches
Remember, too, that two different guide rods and recoil springs are in the system and they cant be mixed. The old spring is double-strand, while the new spring is single-strand. The old guide rod is thin, while the new rod is thicker. If you use the old guide rod with the new spring, the spring will be loose and it will develop flat spots. Then you get jamming. If you force the new guide rod into the old spring, youll damage the spring. If the rod and spring dont fit together easilyor snuglydont use them. Order a new rod, NSN 1005-01-188-7877, or new spring, NSN 5360-01-2032973.
Old doublestrand spring uses thinner guide rod New singlestrand spring uses thicker guide rod
PS 554
37
JAN 99
M157 / M157A2 Smoke Generator . . . he new engine head blank, NSN 4910-01-449-5335, cant help you troubleshoot the igniter if your repairmen dont know how to use it. Heres the scoop: Before starting, remember that this is a two-man job, so get help. Never test for spark without the engine head or blank installed. They prevent flashback. 1. Set the circuit breaker CB1 and the power switch to ON. (M157A2: Set CB1 to ON.) 15 secondsand check the igniters spark in the combustion chamber. 7. If there is no spark, set all switches to OFF and disconnect the ignition cable from the igniter. Set the power switch and CB1 to ON. (M157A2: Set CB1 to ON.) Hold the end of the ignition cable 1/4 inch from the metal frame. Hold the engine switch to START. 8. If there is a spark, set all switches and CB1 to OFF, replace the igniter, and check for spark in the combustion chamber.
6. If theres a spark, set all switches to OFF, reinstall the head and continue troubleshooting for adequate fuel/air.
9. If there is still no spark, set all switches and circuit breaker CB1 to OFF, and check the ignition cable continuity. If the cables OK, replace the coil and continue troubleshooting for adequate fuel/air.
2. Turn the fuel switch on the control panel to OFF and purge any remaining air from air compressor. (M157A2: Turn ball valve to OFF.) 3. Disconnect the air supply line. 4. Remove the engine head and replace it with the blank.
Install blank
you ha ven 't been following the radiation regulations on the m8 alarm, have you?
If you operate the M8A1 indoors or in a vehicle, you must use an outlet filter to trap any radioactive particles. Replace the filter if it becomes clogged or damaged. When youre done with a filter, you must handle it with disposable gloves. Then put the gloves and filter in a plastic bag, which goes into a metal container. Dispose of the
Outlet filter must be disposed of properly
he M43A1 detector for the M8A1 alarm has a radioactive source that requires special storage and treatment by NBC NCOs. Regulations require you to store M43A1s in a locked room or caged area with a radioactive caution sticker posted on the door. The best place to store M43A1s is in a locked metal cabinet with a caution sign on the front. There is no NSN for the sticker, but your local safety office, radiation proStore in locked cabinet with warning label
tection officer (RPO), or Environmental Protection Agency office can usually get you some. One thing you dont want to store in that cabinet with your M43A1 detectors is radiacmeters. The radiation from the M43A1s affects the radiacmeter readings. Because of the radioactive source, the M43A1 must be wipe-tested by support for leaks every 12 months. If its overdue, the M43A1s NMC and you could be written up. Check the label on the detector cell to see when it was last tested. If its overdue, get it tested ASAP. For more details, see TACOM-ACALA safety-of-use message 98-02. Its on the Internet at
http://aeps.ria.army.mil Check label for last wipe test
container through your local RPO. Details are in Para 4-13 of TM 3-6665312-12&P. You can make installing and removing the outlet filter easier with a snapon adapter, NSN 4730-01-350-1584. Once the adapters on, you wont have to take off the air outlet nut to put on the filter. Remember to report all incidents involving lost or damaged devices con-taining radioactive material to your local RPO or safety officer immediately. For details, see TACOM-ACALA ground precautionary message (GPM) 98-01. You can find the message on the TACOM-ACALA Internet site or get a copy from your TACOM-ACALA logistics assistance representative.
M41 PATS . . .
Pack PATS in a cardboard box for shipment. Include the PATS case, all PS 554 41
the accessories (except the battery and alcohol bottle), a point of contact at your unit (name and phone number), and your unit ID code (UIC). If you do ship PATS yourself, notify your local TMDE group so they can enter your PATS in their database for tracking purposes. Normally, USATA will need less than a week to calibrate a PATS. For more information, contact USATAs Greg Boggs at (256) 9558138, DSN 645-8138, or e-mail him at
dboggs@tmdeccstmp.redstone.army.mil
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JAN 99
AN/PDR-75 . . .
Dear Half-Mast, have radiac have I have an AN/PDR-75 radiac set. I have been trying with no success to get a replacement humidity indicator element. Mine has turned from blue to pink and the TM says to turn in a pink indicator element replacement. for replacement. there But there Ignore element color here seems to be no NSN for the element! And no one I turn to knows how to get a new one. So, So, Im turning to you. What should I do? SGT E. A. L.
PS 554 42
One good turn deserves anotherforget about replacing that indicator element! TM 11-6665-236-12 once said to turn in a pink element to general support for replacement, but no more. Page 2-2 of the newest version of the TMJun 95says that no element changes are required. In fact, new radiac sets dont have an indicator element at all! Moisture inside the meter is not a problem.
JAN 99
AN/VRC-12 RT . . .
ake the hookup between your field expedient antenna and your i'll hook you up with the AN/VRC-12 receiver-transmitter hookup! easy with the UG-1441 adapter, NSN 5935-00-410-1399. One end of the adapter has binding posts for field wire. The other end has a BNC connector that fits the RTs ANT receptacle. The wire from the adapters red binding post goes to the antenna. The wire from the black binding post goes to the counterpoise (lower wire). To keep the adapter handy, fasten it to the RTs handle. This fix beats trying to feed field wire directly into the sets receptacle.
Red Black
Vehicular Antennas . . .
JAN 99
Commo Shelters . . .
Wh at has two thin lay ers of m me tal cov erin g con duc tive foa and tea rs qui te eas ily?
need another clue? read on!
It hates having heavy or sharp objects tossed on it and stored on it. If you guessed commo shelter, you guessed right. But judging by the looks of many commo shelter roofs, most of you didnt know the answer!
The roof of your commo shelter may look tempting as a place to store equipment, or to move your gear to the field, but that ruins the shelters roof. Things like ground rods or concertina wire cut and tear the shelter roofs skin. The only load-bearing surfaces on these shelters are at the cornersnot on the roof itself! Make sure you look at the roof if youve been hauling cargo on top of your shelter. If you see punctures or broken seams, get them fixed immediately. Shelter leaks cause electrical shorts. Find out what you can fix, and what tools and materials you need to do the work, in TB 43-0124, Maintenance and Repair Procedures for Shelters. It tells you everything you need to know to complete repairs at the unit level. If you have no choice but to load gear on your shelters roof, put pallets or plywood under the equipment to protect the skin. Then, remember that putting items on top of the shelter changes the center of gravity of that vehicle. It can be a safety hazard. For more information, see TM 10-5411-205-13 for the S-250 shelter and TM 10-5411-207-14 for the S-280 shelter.
Never mix and match refills and kits. The chemicals they use to propel the compressed air are different and not compatible.
PS 554
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JAN 99
AN/UXC-7 Facsimile . . .
What it is, is a document holder. Say youre operating your AN/UXC7 lightweight digital facsimile in the field and a strong wind whips up. You dont want those important faxes to be blown away faster than Dorothy was blown out of Kansas, do you? Of course not. Thats why the folks who made your fax put a document holder inside your front cover. With those important papers stuck under the holder, you can spit in the winds eye. (Well, maybe youd better not do that.)
A TM stored in the cover puts pressure on the shaft of the power switch. It wont be long until the knob on the switch snaps off. So how do you make sure the document holder gets used for what it is and not for what it isnt? Label it. The perfect place for a label is inside the lid between the instructions and the latches. Make the words on the label as forceful as necessary to solve the problem. RL-207 Series Reels . . .
The label can be as simple and temporary as masking tape and marking pen; or, you can use a label maker and do a more permanent job.
Dear Sergeant H. L. P., No, the only lower V-belt to use is the smooth one, NSN 3030-01-158-7527. If youre getting a belt with teeth, its the wrong belt. Check the NSN youre ordering. If its good, its a supply error.
If belt has teeth... ...replace it with one that doesn't
What it isnt, is a place to store your power cable or TM. A power cable stored in the cover bashes against the memory load light on one side and the power switch knob on the other.
Don't store cable here ...
Whatever the problem, dont use that belt! It may fit, but it does not allow complete control of belt slippage. The belt with teeth will bitegrabwhen you dont want it to. It could cause injury or equipment damage. Make sure you have the right upper V-belt, too. Its NSN 3030-01-290-1371.
...or you might damage memory load light and power switch knob
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JAN 99
PS 554
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JAN 99
Hardware . . .
ere are a bunch of available kits and assortments for screws, washers, metric fasteners and other common use items:
01-185-8786
705
01-186-7208 PS 554
200 JAN 99
Screw Assortments
NSN 5305-01Description Screws, self-tapping non-machine thread, 188 stainless steel, pan head, cross-recess drive. 100 ea: #6 x 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; #8 x 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; #10 x 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. 50 ea: #8 x 11/2 inch; #10 x 1 inch, 11/4 inch and 11/2 inch; #12 x 3/4 inch, 1 inch and 11/2 inch Setscrews, 188 stainless steel, cup point, hex socket drive. 50 ea: 440 x 1/8 inch, 3/16 inch and 1/4 inch; 632 x 1/8 inch, 3/16 inch, 1/4 inch, 5/16 inch and 3/8 inch; 832 x 1/8 inch, 3/16 inch, 1/4 inch, 5/16 inch and 3/8 inch; 1032 x 3/16 inch, 1/4 inch, 5/16 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch Screws, machine, pan head, slotted, 188 stainless steel. 50 ea: 4-40 x 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch; 632 x 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; 832 x 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; 1024 x 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; 1032 x 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch; 1/420 x 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch and 1 inch Pieces
416-8563
1,250
416-8576
900
416-8580
1,200
5305-01-230-1530
252
5305-01-194-0522
71
5310-01-193-9534
400
PS 554
Washer Assortments
NSN 5310-01-239-3414 Description Washers, flat, SAE steel for 1/4 inch to 1 inch diameter screws/bolts Pieces 240
Miscellaneous Assortments
NSN 5307-01-210-7914 5307-01-178-5952 5305-01-186-7068 5305-01-255-6350 5306-01-331-7523 Description Studs, plain, steel, grade 8, 5/16 inch, 3/8 inch and 7/16 inch diameters, coarse and fine threads Studs, plain and stepped, steel, grade 5, 1/4 inch to 9/16 inch diameters, coarse and fine threads Screws, sheet metal, with flat and lock washers, #8 through 3/8 inch diameters. 158 screws, 100 lock washers, 43 flat washers Screws, brake bleeder, for most makes and models, foreign and domestic. 11 different sizes Rod, continuous thread, steel, bright-plated, chromate-coated, 12 inch lengths, 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch diameters Pieces 54 240 301 96 45
Remember, though, when replacing hardware on equipment, always use the fasteners called for in your TMs. Tools . . .
Dear Editor, We had trouble in our motor pool with drivers backing into the rollaway toolboxes in the bays. That damaged the boxes and scattered the tools on the floor. We made the boxes more visible with a flag that sticks up four feet above the box. Construct the flag with any kind of lightweight rod and a brightlycolored rag or streamer and fasten it to the back of the toolbox. Drivers can now easily spot the flag before they back over the toolbox. SFC Ramos Archuleta 977th MP Co Ft Riley, KS Thats an idea we can salute.
PS 554 50
Flag It!
utting and welding torch outfit, NSN 3433-00-357-6311, used on 5-ton wreckers, has an acquisition advice code (AAC) of Y, meaning there are none available in the supply system. Until stock is available, you can put together a kit from the following parts: Item Cutting and welding tips NSN 3433-00-294-6743 Item Acetylene regulator valve Oxygen regulator valve Oxygen check valve Acetylene check valve Welders hammer/brush Friction igniter Flint tip igniter Tool roll Tool box Welders gloves NSN 4820-00-551-1094 4820-00-641-3519 4820-00-828-7190 4820-00-828-7192 5120-00-240-3096 5120-00-965-0326 5120-00-965-0603 5140-00-356-8471 5140-00-473-6260 8415-00-268-7859
Cleaner set (12 cleaners, 0.021 3439-00-383-3634 0.067-in diameter, w/o handle, w/case) Cleaner set (8 cleaners, 0.076 0.116-in diameter, w/handle, w/case) Goggles Hose set, nonmetallic Rubber hose, duplex, 25-ft Rubber hose, duplex, 12.5-ft PS 554 3439-00-403-0970 4240-00-816-3819 4720-00-081-5643 4720-00-834-2560 4720-01-043-4099
Tools . . .
before you turn on your portable electric drill, make sure you remo ve the chuck ke y.
Look on the chuck for the manufacturers name and model number. Then order by NSN from this table...
CHUCK MANUFACTURER/ NUMBER Jacobs 1A, 1B, 1BS, MC1, MC1AD, 1M, 1MB Supreme 1J, 1A, 1T1, S1A H1A, HM1A Jacobs 2A, 2B, MC5 Supreme 2A, 2B, 2TB, 2T2, H2A
NSN, SELFEJECTING KEY 3460-01-0184217 4218 4220 4226 4221 4222 4224 4227
better yet, use only safet y self-ejecting drill chuck keys. self-ejecting keys are spring loaded and won't st ay in the chuck once it's tightened.
Jacobs 633C, 633D Supreme 6T33E Jacobs 20N Supreme 26T5 Jacobs 7, 7B, 7BA, 7-1A Supreme 4A, 4B, 4C, 4T1, 4T2 Jacobs 30, 30A, 30B, 31B, 31BA, 8 1/2N, MC4 Supreme 7A,7B, 7 T1, 7 T2, H13A, H13B, B14T33 Jacobs 3333C Supreme 5T33C, 15T33C Jacobs 72G, SM4G61, MC2, H1, H4, U4, MC1, MC51, DC1, DC4, MC1G61, MC1G41, U4G61, U4G41, U4G60 Supreme BM1A, B1A, B80A, BM80A Jacobs 74K, 76K, 77K,SM8, DC8, MC4K61, MC4K01, MC4K41, MC8K64, MC8K33, MC8K61, U8K61, U8K64, U8K33 Supreme B13A, BM13A, B14B, B14T33, B16A, B16B, B16T33 Jacobs MC10R64, MC33R33, MC8K26
SKK
4228
SKR
4229
PS 554
PS 554
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JAN 99
M2 Burner . . .
Test it like this: 1. Stand the cooled-down burner on its end. 2. Tighten the filler cap. 3. Pressurize the tank with air to 25 psi, and put soapy water around the filler neck.
Tighten cap, check for leaks
what you don 't know about your m2 and m2a burners can kill you!
ome of your kitchens M2 and M2A burners may have defective or missing parts. Since you dont want to start your day with a fire or an explosion that can get you killed, heres how you and your repairman can make those burners safe to use.
The two-part valve is silver on the fill end and brass on the base.
Replace one-piece air valve assembly...
4. Eyeball the cap. If soapy bubbles are escaping, replace the gasket. Use NSN 5330-01362-3428. If the filler cap Replace gasket is a round round rubber O-ring, O-ring replace it with NSN 5330-01362-3428.
Filler Cap Gasket If your burner has air valve assembly, NSN 7310-00-999-2508 (a oneIf your burner has filler cap gasket, part valve thats silver in color), re- NSN 5330-01-278-4024 (its a flat, place it immediately with the two- round washer-type gasket made of a part valve, NSN 7310-01-449-9955. cork/rubber composite), it may leak. PS 554 54 JAN 99
if it is missing by looking for a length of copper tubing between the pressure gauge and the mixing chamber. If the tubings not there, there is no safety valve. Get one and install it as spelled out in Para 4-9.10 of TM 107360-204-13&P. If you see the copper tubing, you still need to check out the safety device. First, check for damaged tubing. If tubing is damaged, replace it. Then test its operation, like so: 1. Drain the fuel tank. 2. Use an air compressor to pressurize the tank to 55-65 psi, where the safety valve should open. 3. If the safety valve is OK, it will open. Then the pressure will drop rapidly to 35-45 psi, where the safety valve should close. If it doesnt open or close like it should at these pressures, replace it. 4. Check the safety device for leaks with a solution of soapy water. Tighten any loose hardware. 5. Set the burner on its end and slowly turn the filler cap counterclockwise to release the air pressure. Never release the air pressure near any heat source. Gas vapors will ignite. Always allow the burner to cool before releasing pressure. Use proper refill and lighting procedures as spelled out in TM 10-7360-204-13&P. If your burner needs an air valve and gasket, you can get a kit, NSN 7310-01-456-0776, to update it. The kit contains an air valve assembly, gasket, and installation instructions. 55 JAN 99
PS 554
Immersion Heaters . . .
hen you get ready to put your immersion heaters in storage, make sure theyll be ready to go when you haul them back out. Rust is a heaters biggest enemy. But you can keep it at bay with just a little PM. Heres how to rustproof heaters for storage: 1 Wipe off any grease or moisture. 2 Remove all rust, corrosion, or loose paint with a wire brush, scouring pad, or extra-fine sandpaper.
3 Add touch-up paint, NSN 801000-081-0809, to exposed areas. Paint only those parts that TM 10-4500-20013 says its OK to paint. 4 Clean unpainted parts, like the heater body and hanger screws, with solvent. After drying, add some corrosion preventive compound, NSN 803000-251-5048. Be sure to wash it off with lots of hot water before you use the heater again. 5 Coat the inside of the fuel tank with lubricating oil, NSN 9150-00-111Swirl oil around to coat tank
3199. Pour about 8 ounces of oil into the empty tank. Put the cap back on. Swish the oil around inside the tank to coat it evenly. Then drain the leftover oil. Be sure you flush out the lube oil before you use the tank again. Use a little clean fuel to get it out. That keeps the tank from smoking. 6 Put a light coat of lubricating oil on the smokestack sections. 7 Wrap greaseproof barrier paper, NSN 8135-00-224-8885, around the burner. Now its ready for a few weeks of storage. If it sits longer than that, itd be a good idea to check on it every 90 days. Water Cans . . .
Wick-edly Dry
Editor, Dear Editor, When we come back from the field, we empty water cans as well as we before Wev eve can before storing them. Weve worked out a wicking system to get moisture the last of the moisture out of the storage. cans as they sit in storage. rags We tie cotton rags or fabric tape, NSN 8315-00-255-7662, to the cans handle and then run it into the can. The fabric acts as a wick and pulls the last of the water out of the can. Herbert SGT Joseph Herbert FA 1/77 FA Ft Sill, OK
i'm outta' here!
yikes!
Thats a CAN-DO attitude! A little water left sitting in a can could be a hiding place for contaminants.
56
PS 554
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JAN 99
Product Authorized Stockage List (ASL) Commodity Command Standard System (CCSS)
Product Federal Logistics (FED LOG) Data Distribution General Ledger Hazardous Materiels Data System (HMDS) Interchangeability & Substitutability (I&S)
DSN 645-0782 897-2486 645-0593 645-0791 897-2502/ 2503/2504 645-0782 645-0585 645-0791 897-2478/2479 897-2501 645-0616 645-8334 645-8335 897-2494 897-2506/2475/ 2460/2463 645-0595
some of the phone numbers for the logistics support activity's asset visibility center-formerly the major item center-have changed. now when you need information, call . . .
Product Army Central Service Point (ACSP) AMDF Discrepancy Reporting (DIREP) Army Master Data File (AMDF) AMDF Freight Segment AMDF Packaging Segment AMDF Price Surcharge AMDF Statistics AMDF Extract Requests AMDF Interrogation and Retrieval System (AIRS) Army Total Asset Visibility Army War Reserves Army Cataloging Policy Asset Force Information (AFI) Automated Products Distribution Automatic Return Items List (ARIL) DSN 897-2500/2491/ 2496/2498 645-0600 645-0569 645-0593 645-0593 645-0791 645-9037 645-8333 645-0583 645-9777 645-9591 645-0597 897-2427/ 2425/2432 645-8334 645-0583
Consumable Item Transfer (CIT) Continuing Balance SystemExpanded (CBS-X) CBS-X Reconciliation/ Compatibility CBS-X Transaction Team DA Master Project Codes Defense Inactive Item Program (DIIP) Depot Workload Forecasting System Distribution Execution System (DES) End Item Code (EIC)
897-2424/2426 897-2434/ 2435/2436 897-2445/ 2443/2440 897-2492 645-0585 645-0595 897-2444/ 2449/2451 645-0782
Logistics Army Authorization Document System Materiel Category Code (MATCAT) Procurement Workload Report Reduced Price Initiative Requisition Validation Routing Identifier Codes (RIC) Sets, Kits and Outfits (SKO) Standard Army Retail Supply System (SARSS) SB 700-20 Total Army Equipment Distribution Plan (TAEDP) Unique Item Tracking (UIT) Wholesale Budget Preparation System
The commercial area code and local prefix for DSN 645 extensions are (256) 955-. DSN 897 extensions are (256) 313-. Or you can write to:
USAMC Logistics Support Activity ATTN: AMXLS-M Redstone Arsenal, AL 35898-7466
PS 554
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JAN 99
QDRs . . .
ou can file your taxes on-line, so why not file Quality Deficiency Reports on-line, too? Thats just what the folks at the Army Electronic Product Support at TACOMACALA have made possible. Youll need Internet access and a World Wide Web browser, such as Netscape Navigator or Microsoft Internet Explorer. Point your browser to:
http://aeps.ria.army.mil
This is a password-protected site, so you must obtain a login ID and password. To do so, simply click on the Access Request Form. Answer the questions and click on Submit Form to create your user name and password. From the home page, click on the SSN logo. Enter your user name and password. Select On-line Forms & DESEX Requisitions from the list. Scroll down to the Quality Deficiency Reporting section and select QDR Entry Form. Then fill in the blocks and click on Submit Form.
PS 554
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JAN 99
Compressor Filter
NSN 2940-01-186-0592 gets the oil filter element and packing for the 250-CFM compressor shown in Fig 74 of TM 5-4310452-24P. The gasket is available separately with NSN 5330-01-207-7381.